University College Dublin

Overview

Boasting of a rich heritage spanning over 160 years, University College Dublin (UCD) continues to be a significant facilitator in building modern Ireland. UCD is part of the National University of Ireland and students of UCD are awarded with degrees from National University of Ireland.

The QS World University Rankings include UCD among the top 1% of universities worldwide (168th in the world), while 27% of UCD’s students are international, as well as 28% of its staff, making it a truly global place to study. UCD has also flourished as a leading research institute in Europe with more than 1500 PhD scholars. The University offers ample opportunities for international students to engage in community activities alongside gaining expertise in diverse disciplines.

A unique advantage is offered to students interested in business with its incubator and start-up support centre, (including NovaUCD, NexusUCD and the UCD Enterprise Gateway) which is the biggest in Ireland and has successfully supported more than 242 start-ups and 30 spin-out companies raising over 100 million euros in equity funding to date.

Services for International Students

UCD is home to more than 60 different student societies catering to arts, music, sport and different religious groups, including a society for Indian students. UCD has an Applied Language Centre offering courses in several modern European and Asian languages besides courses in English as a foreign and second language.

Other services and facilities include a huge library, I.T workshops, an international swimming pool, a rugby club (Leinster rugby), as well as an institute for sports and fitness. Campuses at UCD also provide multiple eating options at its many cafes and restaurants, most of which are open from Monday to Friday.

Ranking

University College Dublin is ranked as the 73rd best university in Europe and the 168th best university in the world by QS World University Rankings

The Smurfit Graduate Business School’s MBA ranks 25th in Europe and 70th in the world.

1st in Ireland in the QS Employer Reputation Survey, 129th in World

75th in Graduate Employability Rankings (QS World University Rankings, 2018)

1st ranking University in Ireland for 12 Subjects (as per the QS World Ranking, 2016)

Ranks among the top 100 worldwide for 11 subjects (as per QS World Ranking, 2016)

Accommodation

UCD offers plenty of on-campus accommodation options on Belfield and Blackrock campuses, in addition to the off-campus catered residences in Donnybrook.

Traditional halls are available with shared kitchen and dining services, along with self-catered apartments for up to six students. A 24-hour support team are also available to help with questions or issues which arise before or during your stay. Accommodation at UCD includes all utility bills such as water, heating, electricity and wifi, with other on-site services including laundry facilities and outdoor bike storage. facility and a 24-hour support team.

Location

University College Dublin’s main campus is spread across 130 hectares of the Parkland Estate in the heart of Dublin, the Irish capital. The city is surrounded by River Liffey to the east and Wicklow mountains to the south with farmlands to the north and south of the city. UCD is well connected by public transport and is just 20 minutes from Dublin City Airport.

Private bus service- Aircoach connects Dublin Airport to the main entrance of UCD at Stillorgan Road. Students can purchase prepaid bus tickets online or from stores. Students can also enjoy the picturesque coastal towns and county villages against the backdrop of Dublin Bay in just a 20 minute ride from the bustling Dublin city. The city of Dublin sports many tourist attractions to welcome and entertain the students. The magnificent Christ Church Cathedral, National Ireland Museum, Dublin Writers Museum, James Joyce Centre, Dublinia and the Viking World are only to name a few.

Alumni

Famous alumni of UCD include sporting legends like the Irish rugby captain Brian O’Driscoll and the Ireland and Manchester United captain Kevin Moran. UCD graduates in the field of arts, culture, business and profession include the likes of writer James Joyce, actors Brendan Gleeson and Gabriel Byrne, directors Neil Jordan and Jim Sheridan among others.